Afghanistan Report 2009 - Isaf - Nato

Afghanistan Report 2009
Public Perceptions
Maintaining public support is critical for international
and government forces if security is to be increased
across the country in a sustainable manner.
According to The Asia Foundation’s 2008 Afghan
Opinion Survey, views on the Government’s
effectiveness differ by region 6 . The survey showed
respondents in the North, West, Central and parts of
the East of the country citing improved security as a
positive indicator of national progress. Respondents in
the South-West, South-East and Kabul central regions
reported a degradation of the security situation.
High-profile attacks in Kabul, increased criminality,
and the targeting of poorly-protected government
outposts contributed to decreased confidence in the
government.
Independent surveys do show, however, that Afghan
citizens do not want the Taliban to return to power.
According to the BBC/ARD/ABC poll only 4% of
Afghans would rather have the Taliban in power today,
while 82% support the current form of government.
Furthermore, a large majority of Afghans continue
to support their Government’s overall efforts, and
agree that a strong international military presence
is necessary for the time being. This sentiment is
supported by the Asia Foundation survey in which 86%
of Afghans believe the ANA helps improve security.
The survey also found that 69% believe the ANA is not
yet ready to operate and secure the country without
the support of international forces.
Afghans in discussion.
6
TAF Opinion Survey, October 2008.
17